Share this:

Stories about star players transferring from one team to another usually dominate the headlines during European soccer’s offseason, but the summer of 2013 is no ordinary time.

Retirements, firings and “mutually agreed” departures have seen some of club soccer’s most coveted jobs open up in recent weeks. Top clubs such as Bayern Munich, Manchester United, Real Madrid and Inter Milan are among the soccer clubs which have filled their vacancies with high-profile managers and coaches.

In May, Manchester United’s legendary former manager Sir Alex Ferguson kicked off what has come to be known as the “managerial merry-go-round” when he retired after 27 years at Manchester United. David Moyes left Everton for the United gig, creating a vacancy which Roberto Martinezgladly fillled. Jose Mourinho replaced Rafa Benitez on the Chelsea bench, prompting Benitez to take the job at Napoli after Walter Mazarri left for Inter Milan. Meanwhile, Pep Guardiola ended a year-long sabbatical when he assumed the reigns at German juggernaut Bayern Munich. Do you see what we mean? These are just a few managers who have taken spins on the 2013 managerial merry-go-round.

Changes like these will have a profound impact on the game in the months and years to come. With new managers in place, top clubs are pursuing their main transfer targets — especially those players who can decide games. The domino effect could change top-level soccer in Europe and in other parts of the world.